What should an individualized physical education program enable an elementary school student to do regarding running?

An individualized physical education program for elementary school students should focus on attainable and developmentally appropriate goals. Running a 30-yard dash in 6 seconds or less is a reasonable benchmark for younger children, as it emphasizes speed over endurance, which is often more relevant to their physical capabilities at that age. This goal can be seen as a suitable challenge that encourages students to develop their sprinting skills without overwhelming them with long-distance running expectations, which may not align with their current fitness levels or interests.

Other options like running a one-mile race or running continuously for 10 minutes could be too ambitious for many elementary school students, as their endurance may not be sufficiently developed at that age. Similarly, running a 100-meter sprint, while a valuable skill, may not be as directly aligned with the primary focus on improving quick bursts of speed and may not provide the same level of engagement or motivation for younger students. By centering on a short, fast distance, the program can build confidence and enjoyment in physical activity while fostering a foundation for future fitness goals.